Top 12 Things to do in Greater Glasgow, Scotland

There are so many things to do in Glasgow for all age groups. You simply must see the beautiful architecture and natural beauty of this Scottish city on the rise. You will feel right at home as you bask in the attractions in Glasgow.

The Beauty of the Scottish Highlands Awaits You

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Some of the most beautiful terrain on the globe exists just outside the map of Glasgow's city lines. The Scottish Highlands are a high point to any vacation to Glasgow. Walking in nature is an essential part of authentic Glasgow tours. The amazing lush landscape and rolling green hills have made Scotland an iconic tourist spot for generations. Be sure to carve out some time for Glasgow excursions, which include walking in the great outdoors. There many tours featuring different walking grades to accommodate different fitness capacities. A quick drive out of Glasgow can connect you with trails full of coast, mountains, lochs, and lush forests.

The Best Glasgow Activities

Glasgow is a contemporary city with a living history. Be sure to take a photo in front of the famous Clyde Arc. This road bridge spans the River Clyde to connect the area of Finnieston with Pacific Quay and the Glasgow Science Centre. The bridge's unique curved design and angled posture makes it a point of fascination for local residents and tourists alike.

A trip to the University of Glasgow is not to be missed on your visit. The university dates back to the year 1451. This is your chance to walk in the footpaths of some of the most influential minds in European history. Alumni of the university include Adam Smith and Lord Kelvin.

The city's West End is home to the Glasgow Botanical Gardens. A visit to this stunning campus is an essential part of experiencing the city. The sprawling site hosts many species of exotic flowers and trees spread out in manicured exhibits. Be sure to have lunch at the famous Botanic Gardens Tea Room.

There are many places in Glasgow to taste authentic Scottish cuisine. No vacation is official without a proper haggis tasting. There are many spots where you can order haggis meals with distinctly homemade touches.

Expedia.com will hook you up with the Highlands. Let us help you get a head start on experiencing one of the top cities in the world by booking your trip to Glasgow today.

Feel like a rock star as you jump to the front of the line for an upbeat, modern experience in the middle of Glasgow's fashion-forward and historic Style Mile.

This hotspot houses rare pieces of authentic music memorabilia—from jackets to guitars. It's located in the beautifully restored Athenaeum Theater, an 1891 Renaissance-style building is right in the heart of Glasgow's Style Mile and its 1,500 shops—truly a shopper's paradise.

Check out the merchandise in the Rock Shop if you'd like to take home some memorabilia of your own, and enjoy selections from the Gold or Diamond Menus. Your Hard Rock dining experience includes an entree (salad/bruschetta), 1 main course (cheeseburger, veggie burger, chicken sandwich, chicken Caesar salad, barbecue chicken, barbecue ribs, or twisted mac), dessert, and a beverage (soft drink, coffee, or tea).

With its spectacular scenery, remarkable heritage, and vast range of whisky distillery regions, Scotland is sure to amaze you. This full-day tour takes you on a journey through dramatic landscapes and scenic glens—with a chance to see historic buildings and... taste exclusive whisky.

Leaving the city, head northeast to Stirling, where you get a chance to stop and explore the Wallace Monument. This tower stands tall on the summit of Abbey Craig. It commemorates Sir William Wallace, the 13th-century Scottish hero. Follow the story of Scotland's "Braveheart" and see the legendary 5-foot 6-inch (1. 7-m) broadsword. Then travel farther north to Gleneagles Hotel Estate, the site of the 2014 Ryder Cup. Step in the footsteps of international golf legends before your next stop in Crieff.

Then it's time to learn about Scotland's national drink at the Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret Distillery. Discover the traditional process of whisky making and sample the exclusive Black Grouse Alpha whisky, available only at this distillery.

After lunch, your journey heads down through Strathyre to Kilmahog Woollen Mill for a chance to meet Harnish the Highland Cow. Driving through the Trossachs, admire the ample lochs, mountains, and forest of Scotland's first national park. Uncover the site of Rob Roy, a famous Scottish folk hero. Your tour is then complete with a brief stop at Aberfoyle, a charming village on the banks of the River Forth.
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Unravel more than 5,000 years of Scottish history at your own pace with the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass. Visit Scotland's premier attractions, including archaelogical gems and war-torn castles, and enjoy skip-the-line access to iconic places such as Edinburgh Castle.

Gain time with fast-track entry to Edinburgh Castle, which towers over the city from its "Great Rock," and Stirling Castle, a great symbol of Scottish independence. Take part in day events, relive history, and discover the people and stories behind these extraordinary palaces. Immerse yourself in tales of power struggle, battles, and marriages. There is plenty to do and see for everyone in the family.

Explore beautiful Glasgow—known for its rich design and architecture—not to mention its vibrant culture and warm hospitality on board the top deck of a double-decker bus. At your own pace, hop on and hop off at churches, art galleries, and... scenic parks as you learn about life as a Glaswegian.

Marvel at the 12th-century medieval Glasgow Cathedral, recognized for its massive spires and medieval stone arches. Near the Cathedral, stop by the Glasgow Necropolis, a hilltop Victorian cemetery overlooking the city. Its intricate statues, headstones, and mausoleums offer a fascinating glimpse into this city's past.

Next, hop off to stroll through the verdant grounds of the Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest public park, before venturing over to Glasgow Harbour to learn about the last remaining Clyde Tall Ship. For a break to please your palette, visit the famous Willow Tea Rooms where you can delight in being served a traditional Scottish afternoon tea.

Although no monsters are alleged to live in Scotland’s largest loch, its "bonny" scenery is sure to keep your attention. Take a day away from city life and uncover the stunning landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and surrounding villages of Loch Lomond... and Trossachs National Park.

Your day begins with a scenic drive through the verdant hills of Campsie Fells toward Loch Lomond, where you make your first stop. One of the largest freshwater expanses in Scotland, it stands in front of looming mountains and features a scattering of islands. Spend your free time cruising along the loch or strolling through the conservation village of Luss. Either way, make sure you photograph the spectacular views the loch has to offer.

Continue on to Aberfoyle, a small village located in the heart of Trossachs National Park, for a lunch break. After, take time to explore the rest of Trossachs, Scotland’s first national park, also known as the "Highlands in miniature. " The park, which oozes a wealth of lochs, mountains, and forests, is also the homeland of legendary outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor.

Your tour is complete with a visit to the impressive Stirling Castle, built in the 12th century on the site of a Roman fort. Perched high on volcanic rock, it offers wonderful views of the landscapes below. Take the chance to enter the iconic castle and learn about famous figures of 16th-century Scotland, such as William Wallace and Mary, Queen of Scots.
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Loch Ness immediately conjures thoughts of its famous inhabitant, the Loch Ness Monster. Learn about the mysteries and myths of this loch, visit various Scottish estuaries, and take in some of the most breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands.

Leaving Glasgow, travel northward and stop at Loch Lomond. This loch, the largest inland waterway in Britain, sits below a towering Munro (Scottish mountain), creating an incredible scene—be sure to make the most of this photo opportunity!

Venture up into the Highlands and over the vivid landscapes of Rannoch Moor to Scotland’s famous Glen Coe. Admire the beauty of this listed National Scenic Area and learn about its poignant history.

After a lunch break at Fort William, head through Great Glen, a series of valleys that runs through the country, and pass by the base of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Driving along the water's edge, take in sights of the Caledonian Canal and the scenic hamlet of Fort Augustus before stopping to look for "Nessie," the Loch Ness Monster. Cruise along the loch and learn about the cryptic creature, or discover the ruins of Urquhart Castle.

On your return journey to Glasgow, pass through Inverness, capital of the Highlands, the woodland area of Perthshire, and Pitlochry town, where Queen Victoria once vacationed.

Dive deep into the beauty and heritage of the West Highlands on this full-day guided tour. From glistening lochs and verdant mountains to picturesque towns and rugged glens, Scotland's natural beauty is sure to amaze you.

Head westward and cross the largest and deepest waters of the British Isles—the Firth of Clyde. Pass by the impressive rock fortress of Dumbarton before arriving at Inveraray, a traditional county town that lines the shores of Loch Fyne. Spend your free time visiting the grand Inveraray Castle, the historic home of the Duke of Argyll, or the glorious gardens and breathtaking seascapes of Loch Fyne.

Continue your tour and pass by Kilchurn Castle, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland, before arriving at the resort town of Oban. Try the fresh seafood that the "Seafood Capital of Scotland" has to offer or explore the horseshoe-shaped bay. Then travel to Glencoe, one of Scotland's most haunting glens and the site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan.

Your return journey takes you over the Rannoch Moor and Black Mount before making a final stop at the preserved villages of Luss. Admire the stone-clad houses or take a stroll along the “Bonnie Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond.

Get a memorable and personalized souvenir of your vacation with a private photo shoot using Glasgow's major landmarks as a background. With the help of a bilingual local photographer, discover the city at your own pace and capture timeless memories... of your visit as you tour with friends or family.

Your photographer captures portrait- and documentary-style moments that reflect your personal style and uses creative and professional talents to make you and your group look truly amazing.

Photo sessions are held in some of the city's most picturesque neighborhoods, like the iconic George Square or the magnificent Botanic Gardens. You can also feel free to choose from your own locations that suit your style and personality. You receive your beautifully retouched images in a shareable gallery within a week of your experience.
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Hop off your cruise ship and onto a double-decker bus to explore the sights of Glasgow at your own pace. This hop-on hop-off tour hits all of the city’s major attractions, including its scenic parks, art galleries and museums, and... great shopping areas.

Make your way into Glasgow from the cruise terminal and settle into a comfortable seat on the bus to ride around town, hopping on and off as you please to discover the marvels of Glasgow. Make a stop at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to striking exhibitions in 22 themed modern galleries. Explore Glasgow Harbour and browse the modern shops as you admire views of the River Clyde. For a dose of history, see the impressive Clyde-built ship Glenlee at the Riverside Museum.

Marvel at the 12th-century medieval Glasgow Cathedral with its massive spires and medieval stone arches. Nearby, stop by the Glasgow Necropolis, a hilltop Victorian cemetery overlooking the city. Its intricate statues, headstones, and mausoleums offer a fascinating glimpse into this city's past.

Kick up your travel-weary feet with a first-class relaxation experience in the Upperdeck Lounge. This peaceful oasis offers a convenient escape from the airport bustle, complete with access to amenities that make the waiting experience pleasurable, including Wi-Fi, food, and... drinks.

Before a flight, after a long journey, or between destinations, there's no better place to rest and refresh than at the Upperdeck Lounge. Unwind with a drink at the bar, grab a bite to eat, and take a moment to read or watch TV in comfort—with a little more legroom than you get on the plane. Charging stations let you power up your devices, and Internet access lets you keep in touch with friends and family back home.

The lounge is open to travelers of any ticket class on any airline, so you can rest easy knowing that your gate is just steps away. Chat with fellow jet-setters, meet up with other travelers in your group, or just enjoy a moment of solitude in the busy airport.
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